baby hotline

by lindsaypaw (admirallindsay)

Summary:

Whatever they were looking for, Bot couldn’t be that for Fan and Test Tube. So, maybe they could make a family of their own— and skip the robotics.

—

Test Tube is pregnant. Set right before S4.

Chapter 1: once i had a child

Test Tube knew very little about the whole debacle surrounding MePhone. It did make her a little apprehensive, knowing that at the very core of her being, she was made to be smart. Previously, she took pride in her academic prowess; the array of knowledge tucked under her belt— astronomy, chemistry, biology, physics, it was a piece of her. 

 

Yet, now she knew it was a piece programmed into her. Test Tube didn’t earn it herself. 

 

( Well, doing things got her mind off it. )

 

“Bot, please pass me the solution.”

 

Test Tube outstretched a hand towards the pale mint robot, adjusting her glasses. Bot stretched themself right over to the opposite desk, snatching up the little vial of pure dust she’d left and handing it off to the scientist.

 

These days, Test Tube sort of evaded all proper lab etiquette. She forewent her lab coat, since seeing it made her feel odd and out of place. Her hair, which she was previously particular about getting out of her face, was hanging down just above her shoulders. She wore skirts, shorts, jeans— anything but the lab-sanctioned pants that were now dusting away in her closet.

 

Maybe she was trying to escape her label. Maybe she was just… a person who liked science instead of The Scientist ™.

 

She was more than that, right?

 

Test Tube shook her head, dislodging the thought from where it nestled in her brain as she poured the dust in the little mixture she’d made sitting in the beaker. The color fused, swirling into a very vibrant blue.

 

Bot’s eyes widened, “Oh wow! That’s so pretty!”

 

Test Tube smiled as she held it up, “It looks better than the last one. Maybe this one will be the one.” 

 

The project at hand was the shimmer spray; she found it had the regenerative qualities possible to stop a lot of major accidents, but the issue was getting it to last more than ten seconds. Test Tube took the beaker and turned to transfer it into the spray gun— but she suddenly was very, very weak.

 

“Oh my gosh…” She quickly set down the precious cargo, pressing a hand to her forehead. Bot slunk over to her side quickly, “Test Tube? Are you okay?”

 

“I-I don’t know…” She wavered, off-balance. Bot helpfully extended their arms to wrap around her back, easing her up. This feeling was akin to when she wouldn’t eat enough back during Inanimate Insanity, and then she’d stand up too fast— but that didn’t make sense. She’d stopped that habit ages ago.

 

“That was so weird,” Test Tube continued, shaking her head to try and set herself straight, “I just… felt so lightheaded…” But as quickly as that spell hit her, it faded. Using Bot, she laid herself back on her feet.

 

“That’s not really a good sign.” Bot said, frowning, “Maybe you should go rest.”

 

“What? No, I’m fine now.” Test Tube waved their concern off, “See? Just a one-time thing.”

 

“Alright…” Bot released their hold on her, brow furrowing, “But if that happens again—“

 

“I know, I know.” Test Tube smiled at them. She was very touched during the times Bot decided to worry about her— she knew she didn’t deserve it, not from them, “Come on, let’s test this so we can go get dinner.”

 

“Maybe we’ll get there in time when Trophy gets off.” Bot shook their head, “I swear, I don’t know why he took up that cook job when he burns everything.”

 

“Hah, doesn’t matter what you order.” Test Tube took the shimmer liquid and clicked it onto the spray gun, “He’s always gonna give you well done.”

 

Bot’s chuckling mixed with hers, “Maybe I should try getting a job there.” They mused, “Can you see me as a waiter?”

 

“If that’s what you want.” Test Tube’s voice came out a lot shakier than she imagined as she leveled her eyes with theirs, “I mean, if you do want to, instead of helping me here, I wouldn’t really… it’d be a good change of pace, is what I’m saying.”

 

Yes, she floundered. She floundered a lot of the time when she spoke with Bot. Admittedly, Fan and Test Tube and Bot were still in a weird creator-creation-friend limbo. She had to catch herself whenever the parental affection seeped into her voice because Bot didn’t want that. 

 

“Test Tube.” Bot’s eyes narrowed at Test Tube’s attempt at overcompensating. The scientist smiled sheepishly, tossing the spray gun to them.

 

She said, “sorry.” She knew she irritated Bot when she spoke to them like a child— it was a habit she and Fan had to bite back. Replacing the hole the shimmer egg left imprinted on them was never going to be easy, but Test Tube knew now they shouldn’t have tried.

 

The scientist swallowed back the lump in her throat, face tensing back up as she nodded to Bot, “Alright, let’s do this.”

 

 

 

 

---

 

 

 

 

When Test Tube’s eyes flickered open, she’s hit with a wave of what she can only assume is heartburn.

 

Her boyfriend, Fan, had his arms wound around her waist, chin tucked into her neck. He’d spent the night in her room, as he often did from time to time. She blinked at the clock by her nightstand, realizing it was far too early to be up when she saw the 5:34 AM flashing back at her, but the discomfort had woken her up after it was too much to bear.

 

Test Tube groaned inwardly, and figured that maybe shifting into another position would be helpful in this case. However, when she started to turn to her side: nausea. Bad nausea.

 

Fan was still soundly asleep, but with the spell of dizziness that washed over her, she didn’t really have a chance to even attempt to pry him off gently without disturbing him. Test Tube shot up and booked it to the bathroom, bile quickly rising in her throat without warning.

 

Thankfully, she made it to the toilet, folding herself over the bowl and retching. As disgusting as it was, she REALLY did not want to vomit in her room.

 

“Test Tube?” She heard her boyfriend call from the doorway after she let up, “You okay?”

 

Test Tube wiped her mouth with the side of her hand, “M’fine.” She rasped, flushing it down, “Just threw up. A lot.”

 

“Oh, baby.” Fan’s voice was thick with sympathy, flicking on the lights. The harsh brightness flooded her senses, blinking rapidly to adjust. She felt a bit embarrassed, turning her head to the side.

 

“Sorry, I woke you up.” She mumbled, “You can go back to sleep.”

 

“Don’t apologize.” Fan insisted, kneeling by his girlfriend and rubbing her back, “How are you feeling?”

 

Test Tube sniffed, “I don’t know. Still… queasy?” she sighed with her face knitted in visible discomfort.

 

“I’ll go get you some water.” Fan pressed a gentle kiss to her temple, one that filled her chest with warmth and made her heart flutter despite the sickness still looming over her.

 

She grunted in response, not trusting herself to open her mouth again at that point. The seconds melded together, and Fan had returned to her like a knight in fuzzy pajama bottoms, handing off the glass of water.

 

Test Tube took small sips. The water sloshed uncomfortably in her stomach, but it did help with the burning in her throat. Still, she didn’t want to overdo it and risk throwing up again. 

 

Her sweet, amazing boyfriend had settled beside her again, pressing the back of his hand to her forehead. Fan squinted in thought, “Doesn’t seem like you have a fever. Think you have food poisoning?”

 

“I guess that burger last night didn’t sit well with me.” Test Tube mumbled, taking another gulp of water.

 

“Just take it easy today, then.” Fan said, “I’ll bring you some breakfast. Something light on your stomach.”

 

Test Tube’s nose scrunched, hobbling back onto her feet, “But I—“

 

“No work today.” He cut her off, “You want to risk throwing up on your equipment?”

 

She sighed, her cheeks rising in temperature. Fan knew her too well, and he was right, as much as she hated to admit; she probably shouldn’t go in when she has stomach problems.

 

Test Tube rolled her eyes, but she couldn’t hide a quirk in the corners of her lips into a small smile, “Okay bossy, no lab today.” She ruffled his red hair, “Now get out so I can rinse my mouth.”

 

Fan grinned at her, walking out of the bathroom, “That’s right I’m bossy! And I’ll tie you to the bed if I have to!” he called, letting the door shut.

 

The buzz in her chest from the love for her lovely dork of a boyfriend almost overpowered the second wave of nausea that hit her. Almost. But the sickness beat her out as she hurled the rest of the contents of her stomach into the toilet again.

 

“Ugh, gross.” Test Tube groaned, flushing down her mess again. But, after that, she felt like the worst was behind her.

 

( How wrong she was. )

 

 

 

---

 

 

 

On the third day of waking up queasy, Test Tube knew something was wrong. She just didn’t know what she was in for.

 

Sickness didn’t usually bring her down; in fact, the scientist had worked, or at least tried to work, through the flu before. 

 

( Her friends had quickly wrestled her into bed, though, and she was forced to be held prisoner in her own room. Not a fun experience, and she learned then Lightbulb had no trouble side-tackling a sick friend like she was a football quarterback to get her to rest. )

 

But, Test Tube had to admit, whatever stomach bug she had apparently caught made it very hard to do any labwork, because she couldn’t focus when she had to put all of her brain power into forcing herself not to vomit the contents of her stomach. Plus, it was hard to really keep some food down. 

 

However, there were things that had to be done. After the whole debacle with Cobs and MePhone, the effort to rehabilitate and rebuild was put into action by the so-called ‘leaders’— OJ, Suitcase, and Cabby. As one of the only ones carrying the wide array of scientific knowledge, she was an important building block in their new society. She was the inventor, and she really couldn’t afford to be sick.

 

“Gosh, you need to see a doctor.” Fan had told her when she was groaning from just the smell of breakfast in the newly built restaurant, rubbing his hand over her back. Usually, the warm pancake smell was something she looked forward to— now it made her feel like throwing up.

 

Test Tube’s face pressed against the cold of their lunch table, “Noooo… I’m busy.” She huffed and put her chin on the edge of the table, “And besides, we don’t have a doctor yet.” Salt was still in so-called medical training, and she didn’t really want to be her first test subject, ironically.

 

Suddenly, a loud slam right between them made Test Tube nearly fall over from the surprise. Lightbulb had pulled up right to their table, taking the liberty of stealing a chair from one of the others. She happily plopped down, grinning widely.

 

“Hey, here’s my favorite couple!” Lightbulb chirped, “What are we eating today?”

 

“Hi, Lightbulb.” Fan acknowledged her with a smile, “Test Tube’s still sick, so we’re having some soup.”

 

“Omga! Still?” The cheery girl gasped, “Girl, you’ve got to get that checked out!” She leaned back, tapping a finger right on her chin, “Oh! Why don’t you visit Candle? I went to her about my neck pain and she gave me a massage— and it was all gone I tell you!”

 

“That hippie?” The words tumble out of her mouth before she could capture them. Candle had taken a role as a holistic doctor-slash-therapist during the reconstruction period, and while Test Tube was very sure meditation could definitely help mental wounds, she carried her usual pragmatism when it came to more physical issues. “Sorry. I mean, I just don’t think her type of… medicine would help.”

 

Fan chuckled, smoothing her hair back, “I know she’s unconventional, but it’s worth a try, isn’t it?” 

 

Test Tube groaned, “I have work…”

 

“You can afford to take a break. Suitcase will understand.” He gripped onto her hand, “I really don’t like seeing you this way.”

 

Test Tube’s eyes softened. She just couldn’t say no to him. “Okay, okay.” she sighed, “I’ll go talk to her.” She still had her pervading doubts that the person who insisted colds could be cured with vibrations could really help her with this specific issue, but it didn’t hurt to try. She really, really wanted to eat pancakes again.

 

“You guys are so cute.” Lightbulb said broadly, looking down at her menu, “Anyways Test, are you okay if I order some tuna sandwich?”

 

The lurch in Test Tube’s stomach just at the mention told her all she needed to know. 

 

 

 

---

 

 

 

 

Test Tube slunk over to where Candle’s last sighting was reported, right behind the Purgatory Mansion where she did her morning yoga. She felt like a zombie, sluggish and queasy and aching.

 

Candle was in downward dog, and as the scientist approached, she settled onto her knees, that usual look of contentment on her face. Test Tube could never tell what she was thinking.

 

“Ah, greetings.” Candle stood, dusting off her yoga pants, “To what do I owe this pleasure?”

 

Test Tube prepared a breath, you have no choice, Tee, there’s no hospital yet. “Fan wanted me to ask you…” She fiddled with the hem of her sweater, “Uh, I’ve been feeling kinda queasy and sick, so… maybe there’s a tea or something you could give me to make it better?”

 

“Oh, yes, I sensed your equilibrium was all sorts out of balance when you walked in.” Candle clasped her hands together. 

 

( Test Tube wondered if she just made that up. What did that even mean?)

 

“Okay, so…?”

 

“Well, allow me to investigate the cause of your discomfort.” Candle stretched her hand out, “With your permission, of course?”

 

Test Tube felt a wave of weakness hit her, so she just nodded in reply. She needed to get back to work, fast, so she figured she’d let Candle give her some herb remedy and she’d be back in her feet to help the OSC rebuild.

 

“So, how long has this been going on?” Candle asked, her dark eyes lingering on hers. It made Test Tube uncomfortable— but for some reason Candle was really good at and really into eye contact.

 

“Uh, like four days now.” she recounted, letting Candle take her hand and place her thumb on her pulse, “I woke up nauseous, and now it’s been getting worse. And I’m getting sick of things I used to love eating…”

 

Candle made a weird humming noise, letting her digits trickle up Test Tube’s arm and creating goosebumps in their wake. She was trying to be open-minded, but it was times like these where she questioned if Candle really knew what she was doing. 

 

( During her time in Invitational, Test Tube’s had murmured to Fan a theory that Candle was just doing it all for show to make herself less threatening. That theory was quashed when she saw Candle try to heal a sprain with topaz. )

 

“Pardon if this is intrusive,” Candle intoned, brows furrowing, “But when was your last menstrual cycle?”

 

Test Tube’s eyes stretched wide, pulse jumping in her throat as she remembered that suddenly, she was very late. Nausea she could shrug off as some bad food she had eaten, or a stomach bug she had caught unsuspectingly. But nausea, and a late period… she didn’t need Candle to spell it out for her.

 

“Well.” Test Tube rasped, throat suddenly seizing, “A month and a half ago… but you can’t seriously think….”

 

Candle clasped her hands together, a soft smile on her face, “Congratulations, Test Tube. All signs point to pregnancy.”

 

Suddenly, Test Tube was feeling nauseous for reasons that didn’t have to do with her mysterious ailment. Her knees went weak, leaning on the wall for support as her head spun, “Oh. Oh my golly…”

 

Candle’s expression softened, “I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have assumed that you—“

 

“No!” Test Tube blurted, “I-it’s not that… I don’t know…” she ran her hands down her stomach with newly carried life, “I’ve always wanted a baby… but with this whole reconstruction effort… I can’t be pregnant while everyone’s working hard!”

 

“And why not?” Candle asked, walking over and settling next to her, “You deserve to be happy, like everyone else. That is… if having a baby will do that…?” She peered at her curiously.

 

Would that make her happy?

 

Her phone chimed— a text from her wonderful boyfriend, which only made her feel sicker as she glanced at the notification bar.

 

hey babe <3 everything good? 

 

Oh gosh, and Fan… 

 

She was beginning to spiral— and spiraling was no good for her, lest she become the erratic, flighty mess she inhabits when she does so. The last thing she needed was to not be thinking clearly. Test Tube’s hands flexed on the wall, “I don’t know…”

 

Candle took her hand and gently stroked it with her digits. Test Tube suddenly knew why she was so popular; it was really easy to talk with her. “I mean… after this whole… thing with Bot… Fan and I certainly spoke about it…”

 

“Of course.” Candle nodded, “Naturally, your loss of the shimmer egg and Bot not wanting to fill that role for you must have left you two with a terrible hole in your lives.”

 

( And… she was also brutally honest. )

 

“I think…” Test Tube cleared her throat and pressed her forehead to her phone with a shuddering breath, “I think that I’ve always wanted that. Maybe just… not so soon.” She cupped her face in her hands, “And gosh… what about Fan? I don’t even know if he…” she trailed off, grip tightening around her cell.

 

Candle laid a warm hand on her shoulder, “Why don’t you go home?” she prompted, brows furrowed, “Get rest. Clear your mind before you figure out the next step.”

 

“I guess I will.” Test Tube said tightly. She was planning to go home and take a real test just so she could be sure before doing anything very drastic, “This is a lot for one day. Just don’t… tell anyone yet, okay?”

 

“Of course not, Test Tube. That is your news to share.”

 

She released a pent-up breath, gently dragging a palm against her stomach. Now that she was 90% sure she was pregnant, the effect it was having on her brain was staggering. How was she supposed to walk around knowing she was growing a tiny human inside of her? 

 

“If you ask me, this is wonderful.” Candle told her, “I think a baby is just what everyone needs to find new hope after everything that’s happened. It’ll be like this really is a new chapter of our lives.”

 

( A new chapter… and that’s what she really wanted.  )

 

 

---

 

Chapter 2: if i were yours

Test Tube felt it was always important to double check your work.

 

But, after going through all the pregnancy tests (facing a VERY awkward transaction), buying another just to be extra sure, and the big “PREGNANT” that flashed on her giant computer screen when she decided, to be extra extra sure, she’d make up a whole new method to test for herself— it was pretty futile to deny it.

 

Then, she dissolved all of the tests in a fit of rage. And chemical compound. It was time to speedrun her emotions.

 

Stage One— Anger. She was so STUPID; what was she thinking? What a sorry excuse for a scientist Test Tube was. She had invented time travel (but failed), and then she goes and does this when there’s work to be done?

 

Stage Two — Moping. Pregnancy was going to be hard enough to handle on its own and she was already struggling with her terrible morning sickness. Test Tube knew it was just going to get worse and worse and she didn’t even have a baby bump yet!

 

Stage Three — Elation. Test Tube had always wanted a baby, so after she got all of that negative energy out of her system… well, despite the nerves still prickling at her skin, she couldn’t stop smiling. It was true that the shimmer egg left an insurmountable dent in her heart, one she tried (and failed) to fill with Bot. 

 

“Hello, baby.” Test Tube whispered to herself, hand absentmindedly patting at the soft pudge of her stomach she’d begun to grow after the finale, “I guess you’re really in there, huh?”

 

So, she decided that six hours was more than enough time spent rushing through emotions. Test Tube sprawled out on her bed, ears ringing, as she finally picked up her phone to see what her boyfriend had been sending her.

 

okayyy tell me how it goes <3

 

also i can get u some soup if ur hungry. or toast and jam 

 

something light i think

 

i also got a heating pad for you so you don’t have to keep heating up your water bottle

 

And it went on. Fan texted like he was texting his entire stream of thoughts, and Test Tube found it so charming. Just one of the things she so loved about him.

 

Gosh, he was so cute, and sweet, and so thoughtful. Test Tube had no doubt he’d be an amazing father, and even more, he’d react very positively to this news… at least, she’d hoped so. They were so young, they weren’t even married yet. 

 

What if he didn’t want to be a father yet?

 

Test Tube was brought out of her thoughts when someone knocked on her door. She sighed, really not wanting to interact with actual people. Briefly, she contemplated just not answering and staying in bed, but her limbic system betrayed her and began to drag her out of bed.

 

That wretched nausea struck her like lightning when she stood up, but she didn’t feel like she’d throw up any time soon, which was good. Test Tube unlocked the door with a sigh.

 

“Surprise!”

 

Standing at her doorway were Lightbulb and Paintbrush, two of her closest friends. To say she was indeed surprised to see them was a remarkable understatement.

 

“We got you some soup, girl!” Lightbulb continued and held up a wide container, grinning.

 

“Fan is held up with OJ right now, so he asked us to bring it to you.” Paintbrush said.

 

“Plus, when I ran into you earlier you looked like death! No offense.” 

 

“Still offensive, Lightbulb.”

 

Test Tube’s brain seemed to take a moment to absorb everything that was happening, “I… uh…” she stood there, eyes stretched wide as she erratically glanced between the two and the tupperware.

 

Then, Lightbulb brushed past her, graciously inviting herself inside. Test Tube loved her friend dearly, but by golly if she didn’t have a sense of boundaries or privacy.

 

“Where can I put this?” Lightbulb asked, “It’s actually not that hot anymore so… I can pop it in the microwave.”

 

Normally, Paintbrush was more considerate, but seeing as Test Tube didn’t pipe up they also took it as an indicator to come inside, “I hope you’ve been eating. Fan says you’re having trouble keeping things down.” They commented, glancing down at her.

 

Test Tube’s brain returned from whatever brief vacation it took to realize they were inside her room. She shut the door behind her, debating whether or not to tell them about her news. She felt it would be a disservice to Fan to let anyone else (aside from Candle) know before him.

 

“Uhh… about that—“

 

“Oh, did you go to Candle?” Lightbulb shoved the container into her microwave, tapping on the buttons absentmindedly, “Did she heal you with her powers?”

 

“Oh yeah, did you find out what you have?” Paintbrush asked with a keen interest, “Was it a stomach bug?”

 

“Well….” Test Tube fiddled with her hands, finding the words in her mind to stall so she could create the full ‘pros and cons’ list of telling her friends before her boyfriend.

 

Suddenly, Lightbulb gasped. Frozen fear gripped Test Tube as she looked over and saw her friend staring at her garbage can.

 

Oh shoot— she left her pregnancy tests in there.

 

“Om-gah!” Lightbulb exclaimed a little too loudly, “Are you pregnant?!”

 

Telling them it was.

 

Test Tube’s entire body locked up, gaze flicking between her friends and the tests. In that time she spent rebooting, Lightbulb seemed to help herself into snooping more as she glanced at the wastebasket, curious despite the fact Test Tube was kind of frozen in time.

 

“Those are pregnancy tests alright!” Lightbulb commented brightly, snapping back to look at Test Tube, “Are you?”

 

Her volume was getting way too much, so Test Tube pressed her finger to her lips, “Shh! I am, but—“

 

“Test Tuuuube!” Lightbulb squealed, rushing to envelop her in a tight hug, “You’re gonna be a mama! Am I gonna be an aunt?” She pulled back, clapping her hands together.

 

“Wait!” Paintbrush’s mouth was gaping, staring at Test Tube, “You’re pregnant? Like, pregnant pregnant?”

 

“The kid could call me Auntie Lightbulb! I know that’s not technically how it works, but it can happen! Oh— everyone’s going to be so happy for you—“”

 

“No!” Test Tube finally found her voice, cutting her off, “No, no, you can’t tell anyone yet!” 

 

Lightbulb paused, her smile softening, “Oh jeez, sorry girl. Here I am getting all excited, I’ll back off.” she shuffled to give them about an arms-length between them, “You can tell people when you’re ready. But once your stomach gets all big it’ll be hard to hide.” she rubbed her hand on her chin, “Unless… maybe you can say you’re bloated—?”

 

Things were getting off track again. Test Tube appreciated Lightbulb’s enthusiasm, but her scatter-brained ideals made it impossible to talk to her sometimes. She groaned, plopping down on the edge of her bed and burying her face in her hands.

 

“Guys, you have to keep this a secret.” Test Tube rasped, pushing up her glasses, “Until I can tell Fan, at least.”

 

“You haven’t told him yet?” Paintbrush stepped forward to sit beside her. Lightbulb followed, sitting on her other side. Test Tube had to admit, the warmth radiating off them was comforting. She sighed, resting her head on the painter’s shoulder.

 

“I just found out.” Test Tube murmured, “I’m just a bit nervous… this is going to change everything.” She threaded her fingers together, “Well, I don’t know how he’ll react—“

 

“Are you joking?!” Lightbulb exclaimed, making Test Tube flinch at her volume. She quieted down with a small “sorry”, but continued, “Test Tube, Fan’s got like, the worst case of empty nest syndrome I’ve ever seen.“ She giggled, “You should be worried he doesn’t die when you tell him!”

 

Test Tube blushed at her words, flourishing her lungs with a new wind, “Lightbulb…”

 

“She’s right.” Paintbrush said softly, “He’ll be very happy.”

 

Their arm came to wrap over her shoulder, and Test Tube leaned into them with a happy chuckle. Both their words certainly eased her nerves, even by just a little bit. There was still a terrified part of her, as there always was, but now her heart wasn’t beating as fast in fear.

 

“I know… I know…” she mumbled, “I’ll tell him soon.” Test Tube lifted her head up, “But please, promise me you two won’t say anything. To anyone, yet.”

 

“I promise.” Paintbrush agreed.

 

“Pinky promise!” Lightbulb nodded, and held her pinky out. Test Tube smiled at her jovial nature, linking her pinky with hers.

 

In all honesty, Test Tube was pretty glad that they’d found out. She wasn’t planning on telling anyone so soon, but knowing her friends knew and supported her took a huge weight off her chest she didn’t even know was there. 

 

( And surprisingly, Lightbulb’s nosiness was the one to thank. )

 

 

---

 

 

Around the evening, when Fan came back to their room, he was immediately stuck onto Test Tube’s side, wrapping his arms around her soft middle and burying his face into her neck.

 

“I missed you.” He sighed, making Test Tube’s skin prickle with his soft breath.

 

“Hi,” she tangled her fingers into Fan’s hair, “How was the rest of your day?” 

 

“Awful. I was so worried about you.” Fan pulled away from her, furrowing her brows, “Why didn’t you text me back?”

 

“Oh.” In the excitement, Test Tube had totally forgotten to reply to all of Fan’s texts, which was probably the worst offense she could commit towards him, “I’m sorry, it slipped my mind.”

 

“It’s okay. How are you feeling?” Fan’s eyes were rounded as he gazed up at her.

 

Gosh, he is so adorable. Test Tube cupped his face, “Better.” She wanted to reassure him that everything was fine before she just blurted out the news.

 

“Really?” Fan’s smile widened, “That’s great!” His hands traveled down her arms, “It was really rough, seeing you so down for the past couple of days. Obviously not as bad as how you were feeling, but…” he sighed, “I’m really glad to see you better.”

 

Test Tube reached out to cover his fidgety hands with her own. Fan’s hands were always very warm. He had a bit of a sweaty palm problem, but she didn’t mind at all, especially since her own hands were always super cold. 

 

Fan glanced up at her, “I was… uhm… really worried about you.” he confessed, cheeks filling with a cute blush, “I think I gave myself my own stomachache worrying about it.”

 

“Oh, Fan,” Test Tube’s voice was thick and filled with warmth, “I’m sorry I worried you. But I promise, I’m okay.”

 

Fan threaded his fingers loosely with hers, running his thumb over her knuckle affectionately, “Don’t apologize.” He tilted his head to the side, “So, how was it with Candle? Did she figure out what was wrong?”

 

“Well… “ Test Tube bit her lip to stop an excited grin from spreading on her face, “Okay, okay, sit down!”

 

“Sit down?” Fan echoed; for a split second, his face dropped, “Is it bad—?”

 

“No! No…” Test Tube waved her hand, giggling nervously, “Just sit down! I have some…. news.” Overwhelming apprehension was bubbling in her chest— the perfect concoction of jubilation and trepidation that made it feel like she couldn’t breathe. 

 

“Okay…” Fain raised an eyebrow as he settled on the edge of the bed, “What’s going on, babe?”

 

“Uhm…” Test Tube clasped her hands together, “so I did figure out what was wrong… when I went to Candle she kind of told me, and after I double checked… well…”

 

Test Tube went through the different things she could say in her mind— I’m pregnant! We’re pregnant! We’re having a baby! There’s a bun in the oven! But which one was right?

 

Fan, seeing her floundering, offered his hand with an affectionate smile, which she gladly took, wrapping her fingers around him. He gave her a delicate squeeze, Words, Test Tube, use your words!

 

“Hon…?”

 

Test Tube was unable to skirt around it any longer. She squeezed his hand, inhaling a deep breath, “I’m pregnant!” The words she had managed fell so softly from her mouth that she was unsure if it even came out until Fan’s eyes stretched wide, jaw falling agape in shock.

 

Obviously, she was expecting surprise, but what she was really afraid of was what may come after. Test Tube felt like she was being crushed under increasing pressure as she waited for Fan to react. And he was taking awhile to do so, which made Test Tube very afraid she’d misread the situation.

 

Finally, Fan spoke, voice wavering but undeniably soft, “Are you… are you sure?”

 

“Yes. I took tests, and I even made my own…”

 

Despite it all, Fan smiled, “Of course you did.” Then, he was struck silent again, reeling from her announcement. He rubbed a hand down his hair, h the corners of his mouth twitching. Test Tube wasn’t really sure what sort of reaction this was.

 

Shoot. Did I mess up? Test Tube’s grin faltered, “Fan,”

 

“S-sorry… I’m just…” His mouth lifted into a watery smile, “… I’m really happy.”

 

Her eyes stretched wide, relieved, finding nothing but sincerity and earnestness in his gaze, “You are.”

 

“Test Tube, starting a family with you is everything I’ve ever wanted.” Fan spoke with such a thick warmth and affection in his voice that Test Tube nearly started again. And she could very well have with her pregnancy hormones.

 

( What had she done to deserve someone like him? )

 

Test Tube couldn’t contain her emotions any longer, throwing her arms around him and resting her chin on his shoulder, nuzzling into his hair. “I love you.” she whispered, and she meant it.

 

Fan embraced her back, wrapping comforting arms around her, “I love you, too.”

 

Test Tube clung to him, letting his body heat seep into her bones and his familiar scent soothe her nerves. She was glad Fan was being so sweet and understanding, because she really had needed this for the past few days. She piped up after a long moment of silence in each other’s arms, burying her head into his shoulder, “What are we going to do, Fan? With all of this work that still needs to be done….”

 

“Test Tube.” Fan gently pried her off, holding her at arm’s length, “Look, we’ll figure it out, okay? One step at a time.” He promised, stroking her hair back.

 

Test Tube’s chest fluttered, reaching her hands up to cup his face, “When did you get so wise?” She mumbled affectionately, running her thumb over his jaw.

 

“I don’t know.” Fan leaned into her touch, his face contorting to a deathly serious expression (though she could discern the teasing gleam in his eyes), “Probably when I became a father.”

 

Test Tube couldn’t contain a snort, “You only found out three minutes ago, dum-dum.”

 

“And I felt my brain swell up in size immediately!” Fan grinned playfully, “Now I’m filled with so much fatherly wisdom and advice!”

 

Gosh, he’s perfect. Full of love, Test Tube tilted his face forward, slotting her lips over her his in a soft, sweet kiss. Her chest buzzed pleasantly as she felt Fan smile against her, placing his hands over hers.

 

It’s gentle, it’s warm, and very quick. Test Tube pulled away, dizzy with love. She always enjoyed how Fan looked after she kissed him; flushed cheeks and dopey smile and sparkly eyes— like it was their first date and she was brushing her lips against him for the very first time.

 

Tears welled up and freely fell from Fan’s eyes, and she was momentarily struck with fear, a notion that was quickly remedied when he swept her up in another tight hug and nearly knocked her right over. Test Tube felt the air woosh out of her lungs from his intensity, but she didn’t mind. She carded a hand through her boyfriend’s hair, “Fan?”

 

“God, I’m gonna be a dad.” Fan’s voice was taut and full of emotion as he nuzzled his face into her neck. Test Tube smiled to herself, rubbing a hand up and down his back. Right, he was a massive sap, how could she have doubted he’d react any differently? 

 

“Yeah, you are.” Test Tube replied earnestly, bubbling with affection for this dope that was her boyfriend, “Do you need a moment?”

 

“No.” Fan let out a tearful laugh, “…unless you care that I’m blubbering on your shirt.” 

 

“I don’t mind at all.” She hummed softly, settling into the comfortable beat of enjoying his company. The whole exchange had been a best case scenario in her mind. Obviously, a part of her knew Fan wouldn’t abandon her, but she wasn’t expecting how elated he ultimately was. It was everything she could ever wish for…

 

Their baby will be so loved…

 

Another thought trickled to the forefront of her mind, one that she figured was important to know and figure out before anything. 

 

“Fan?” Test Tube gently tapped Fan on the back to get him to release his hold so she could fully pull back and face him again

 

“Oh, sorry, did I hurt you?” Fan’s expression quickly devolved to a flash of anxiety, running his hands down her arms. His amber eyes were still brimming with unshed tears, momentarily holding back.

 

She would have laughed at his genuine fear had it not been rude, “No, hun.” Test Tube reassured him. Her demeanor steeled again, dropping her hands as she leveled him with a more stern look, “Lightbulb and Paintbrush already know.” she informed him.

 

Fan blinked, “Oh?”

 

“I didn’t mean for them to find out before I told you.” Test Tube quickly jumped in.

 

“I’m not upset about it.” He reassured her quickly, smiling, “How’d they react?”

 

“Like you’d expect, I guess.” Test Tube tilted her head to the side thoughtfully, “They’re both really happy for us. And uhm, I was a bit nervous to tell you—“ Understatement of the year, “—so they kind of… helped in that regard.”

 

“Aw, babe.” Fan squeezed her hands affectionately, “You know you had nothing to worry about.”

 

“I knew that, deep down.” Test Tube chuckled nervously, “But nerves got the best of me, I suppose.” That chapter of their progress was over, for now, and she was very grateful for how everything worked out in the end. She shook those thoughts from her mind momentarily, “But, uhm, the reason I bring it up is…” she winced, “I’m not really sure… when to tell other people about this?”

 

“Ah, well…” he raised a brow, “That’s really up to you, Test Tube.”

 

“You too!” Test Tube insisted, “You’re the dad, and I want us to make this decision together.”

 

Fan blushed goofily at this, probably from the sentiment of being called a dad again, “Well, I guess, but people are way worse about whoever’s carrying the baby.” he pointed out in amusement, “You’re going to have people trying to touch your stomach all the time.”

 

Test Tube shuddered. She really didn’t like her personal space being invaded… that was something she was definitely not looking forward to.

 

“I think we can talk to the OSC tomorrow.” She decided, “Maybe they could help us announce it.”

 

“Whatever you want.” Fan coasted a hand up and down her back, “Look, I know you’re really nervous about what’s going to happen, but like I said… we can figure it out one step at a time.” he told her softly.

 

She sighed, “I know, I know, I’m fretting too much, I’m sorry.”

 

“Don’t be.” Fan kissed her temple softly, sending goosebumps down the skin where he touched, “You know, I usually get really scared about things changing so fast… but, I think this is honestly one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.” Fan’s expression melted into one of his goofy smiles, “So how about we just… enjoy it for now?”

 

Enjoy it? Test Tube didn’t even realize she hadn’t given herself a chance to let everything sink in, what with her speed running the stress after her pregnancy test, and freaking out over how she’d tell Fan. Did she allow herself a moment to celebrate?

 

( Could she? )

 

“We’re going to be parents.” she warbled, emotion splitting her chest wide open.

 

“We’re going to be parents!” Fan parroted with a louder cadence, the earlier tears from before welling up in his eyes once more.

 

“Fan.” Test Tube stifled a smile, “Are you going to start crying again?” 

 

“I never stopped, love.” Fan’s face brightened with such an effulgent grin that she couldn’t help but return it, her own repressed passion bubbling to the surface. It made her happy, seeing he was so, so happy.

 

“Well, stop it now, then.” She blinked away the hot tears that pricked at her eyes, “Because then I’ll start crying, you big sap.”

 

“That’s right, I am a big sap!” Fan exclaimed back, and in that moment he surged forward to embrace her  middle and lift her as far as he could to her feet and off the ground (which, wasn’t very far, bless him). 

 

She squeaked in surprise, caught off-guard but all the less appreciative of his enthusiasm. In that moment, she burst into tears— but unlike the previous times, she was elated.

 

“Careful, dummy!” Test Tube laughed between happy sobs, “I’m pregnant!”

 

The unknown still terrified her— she knew it would always terrify her, but at least she wouldn’t be alone. 

 

 

---

 

 

“Oh, and Fan, what are we going to do about a doctor?”

 

“Oh, don’t you know? Salt passed her medical training.”

 

“Oh… crap.”

Notes:

Because Im rewriting this, I have probablyy this and then the next chapter written out so they'll come out pretty quick.... don't get used to these fast updates tho

Notes:

Heyy yall!! So, I decided to redo this fic, so if you're having deja vu that's why!! This time it's set right after the S2 finale and before S4 officially begins!